Abstract

Background

Prospective memory is that memory which is required to carry out intended actions
and is therefore essential in carrying out the daily activities required in the self-management
of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This study aimed to identify the relationships
between prospective memory and diabetic control in children with T1DM.

Method

94 children aged 6–18 years with T1DM completed an innovative prospective memory screen,
PROMS, and a series of cognitive tests. Parents answered questionnaires about their
children's diabetic histories and cognitive skills.

Results

No association between total PROMS score and glycemic control was found. Lower HbA1C
was associated with higher (better) scores on the 20 minute event-based task on the
PROMS. Parental concerns about working memory and metacognition in their children
were mirrored by higher HbA1C.

Conclusions

This study suggests that there may be an association between glycemic control and
prospective memory for event based tasks. Additional studies need to be done to determine
reproducibility, causality, and if prospective memory based interventions can improve
diabetic control.